Multiple Pathways

Preparing students for life after high school

We believe that all students should leave high school ready for the world. Whether they pursue a college education, enroll in career technical training or start a job, our Foundation seeks to impact graduates regardless of the path they choose.

The Academies of Pinellas programs offer students rigorous, relevant and challenging academic courses to prepare for for in-demand jobs. Students combine traditional coursework with technical training to earn high school credit, college credit and certifications for industries such as Trade and Industrial; Business and Marketing; Family and Consumer Sciences; Health Occupations; Public Safety and Security; and Technology.

101 Certifications available

12951 Total certifications earned

96 % Graduation rate within Career Academies

Future Plans®

On average, high school guidance counselors are responsible for supporting 500 students each. To ensure young adults get the information and guidance they need, Pinellas County schools use Future Plans®. This comprehensive career-planning tool helps students discover their aptitudes and work values so they can find and plan for in-demand careers aligned with their interests.

26 k+ Students directly impacted

Take Stock in Children

This statewide scholarship program helps low-income youth—many from minority families—escape the cycle of poverty through education. But Take Stock in Children offers much more than college scholarships: students are paired with mentors who provide inspiration and guidance, college success coaches and school-based ambassadors who monitor their progress and enhance their learning. These services begin in middle school, continue through high school, and include students’ transition into college and career.

Take Stock Graduate Testimonials

“If I didn’t go to college, I wouldn’t have ever seen or been exposed to a world outside of my neighborhood in Pinellas County. This program has not only opened doors for me—it’s brought me through them!”

- Johnny Boykins, Gibbs High School Graduate and Take Stock in Children Alumni

“My mother has Parkinson’s disease. That’s why I want to do research on neurological disorders and develop technology to treat them. Take Stock in Children has connected me with a wonderful mentor who is like a second mother to me. The program has also provided the funds I need to attend Washington University to study neuroscience.”

- Katie McGilvery, Senior at St. Petersburg Lakewood High School and Take Stock in Children Scholar

Traditional Scholarships

The Pinellas Education Foundation offers numerous scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals and dreams. These traditional scholarships range from $500 to $5,000 and are available to high school graduating seniors in the Pinellas County Public School system. Students only need to fill out one application, and their needs and future interests are matched with nearly 100 scholarship opportunities.

Youth Connect

Youth Connect provides guidance, support, financial assistance with post secondary vocational and academic training, and employment opportunities to low-income, disenfranchised youth. The program helps unemployed and underemployed students (ages 16-24) get their GED, earn a certification/degree and, ultimately, work in their field of training. Many of these students benefit from our Frances Stavros SAVE Scholarship Fund, which provides scholarships dollars to attend post-secondary schooling.

Created by Dr. Jeffrey Walker and the Pinellas Education Foundation, Walker’s Rising Stars Scholarship Competition is a yearlong initiative that helps students hone their audition and portfolio skills. Participants in Walker’s Rising Stars compete for college scholarships in categories like Culinary Arts, Dance, Instrumental, Theater, Visual Arts and Vocal Performance.

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